MDA

COMMON NAMES: love drug, mellow drug of America

One of the most popular of the alphabet-soup drugs -- the amphetamine-related psychedelics which include STP, MMDA, MDM, DOEM, and the more dangerous PMA, TMA, and DOB-MDA is similar both chemically and in effect to mescaline and the amphetamines.

Easily synthesized, MDA, or 3,4-methylenedioxyamphetamine, is a white powder usually made into capsules or tablets, although it may also be sniffed or dissolved for injection. Average dosage is 50-150 mg, which takes effect within an hour after ingestion, peaks within two hours, and lasts up to eight hours.

MDA combines aspects of both the amphetamines and the hallucinogens. Amphetamine-like increased pulse and blood pressure, dilation of pupils, insomnia, and loss of appetite occur without the accompanying tension associated with speed. Low doses result in a peaceful euphoria, while higher doses create an LSD-like effect without hallucinations. Communication and interpersonal relationships become important. A warmth and tenderness envelop the tripper, creating a tranquil feeling of joy and peace. The mystical insights, perceptual distortions, and illusions of LSD are replaced by a gentle sensuousness.

Despite the ease with which it is synthesized, street MDA is real only about 50 percent of the time. LSD or LSD/PCP is often substituted. Overdose potential is unknown, and physical addiction does not occur.

MDA was first synthesized in the 1930s, about the same time as amphetamines. Originally devised as an appetite depressant, it was later considered for use as a weapon to tranquilize the enemy into submission.

In the 1960s, it was rediscovered as a recreational drug. It was once considered as a possible aid in psychotherapy, but that notion was dismissed when MDA was placed under Schedule I of the Federal Controlled Substances Act on the specious but commonly held theory that if it's fun, it must be bad. Unfortunately, because of this premature ban, little in formation about the drug's dangers, if any, is presently available.